Kabarak University has officially opened its 16th International Research Conference (KUIRCW26), setting the stage for a week of discussions, innovation, and teamwork under the theme, "Reimagining University Education for an AI-Driven, Competency-Based Future." Running from June 22nd to 26th, 2026, the event brings together university leaders, researchers, policymakers, and industry experts from across Kenya and beyond to look at how higher education can adapt to a fast-changing world.
In his opening address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Henry Kiplangat challenged participants to view the conference as an opportunity to rethink the role of universities in preparing graduates for the future. He noted that while technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, automation, and data science are transforming every sector, the world continues to grapple with climate change, resource scarcity, conflicts, and widening social and economic inequalities. These realities, he said, call for universities to rethink how they teach, conduct research, and engage with society.
Day 1 also brought in perspectives from guest speakers. Dr. (Eng.) John K. Mosonik (CBS, EBS), Chancellor of Rongo University, attended as the Chief Guest and delivered the opening keynote, while Prof. Chris Odindo from De Montfort University (UK) talked about how to improve the modern student experience. After a Q&A session moderated by Dr. Benjamin Mbatia, the afternoon shifted to specific academic tracks, starting with remarks from the School of Business & Economics (SBE) Dean, Prof. Patrick Kibati.
The #KUIRCW26 includes six distinct international conferences hosted by the university's schools, listed here in full:
- International Research Conference on Business, Economics and Commerce
- School of Science, Engineering and Technology International Research Conference
- School of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences International Research Conference
- School of Music and Media International Research Conference
- School of Pharmacy and International Cancer Institute International Research Conference
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences International Research Conference
Across these sessions, people will discuss digital transformation, climate action, healthcare innovation, and competency-based education. Prof. Kiplangat explained that breaking the main theme down this way lets each school tackle the future of education from its own academic standpoint.
A big focus of the event is Kabarak University’s work with Competency-Based Education (CBE). The university started this process in 2019, which led to a 2021 partnership with the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) to train CBC master trainers. Recently, Kabarak became the first institution in Kenya to get approval from the Commission for University Education for teacher education programmes fully aligned with the CBE framework. Prof. Kiplangat noted that universities can no longer judge success just by the facts students memorize; graduates need practical skills, adaptability, and ethical leadership.
The conference highlights the need for different fields to work together on tough problems. From sustainable business and green economies to scientific innovation, healthcare, and changing how we teach, every session connects back to where higher education fits in national and global development. Throughout the week, attendees will take part in presentations, paper sessions, panel discussions, exhibitions, and networking setups to build research partnerships and share knowledge across academia, industry, and government.
